Legal claims defining the scope of protection. Each claim is shown in both the original legal language and a plain English translation.
1. A computing device adapted for test and measurement, comprising: a physical channel input for receiving a line-coded physical signal; a memory for storing a syntax tree generated from declarative language definitions; and a processor operatively coupled to the memory and configured to: access the syntax tree, extract time and edge data from the line-coded physical signal using the syntax tree, and generate bit values for a bitstream using the extracted time and edge data based on a state of the syntax tree.
This invention relates to test and measurement computing devices designed to decode line-coded physical signals into bitstreams. The system addresses the challenge of accurately interpreting complex line-coded signals, which often require specialized decoding logic to convert raw signal data into meaningful digital information. The device includes a physical channel input that receives the line-coded signal, a memory storing a syntax tree derived from declarative language definitions, and a processor. The processor accesses the syntax tree to extract timing and edge data from the incoming signal. Using this data, the processor generates bit values for a bitstream based on the current state of the syntax tree. The syntax tree defines the decoding rules, allowing the system to dynamically adapt to different line-coding schemes without hard-coded logic. This approach simplifies signal decoding by abstracting the decoding process into a configurable syntax tree, reducing the need for custom hardware or firmware for each new protocol. The system is particularly useful in test and measurement applications where flexibility and accuracy in signal interpretation are critical.
2. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to: extract time markers from the bitstream based on event start and end definitions within the declarative language definitions; and generate packet frames for the bitstream using the syntax tree based on the extracted time markers.
This invention relates to computing devices that process bitstreams encoded with declarative language definitions, particularly for extracting and organizing time-based events. The problem addressed is the efficient parsing and structuring of bitstreams containing time-marked events, such as those in multimedia or sensor data, to enable accurate synchronization and processing. The computing device includes a processor that parses a bitstream encoded with declarative language definitions, such as XML or JSON, to construct a syntax tree representing the hierarchical structure of the data. The processor extracts time markers from the bitstream by identifying event start and end definitions within the declarative language definitions. These time markers are used to segment the bitstream into discrete packet frames, ensuring that each frame corresponds to a defined time interval or event. The syntax tree is then used to structure these packet frames, enabling precise synchronization and further processing of the time-based data. This approach improves the handling of time-sensitive data by automating the extraction and framing of events, reducing manual intervention and ensuring consistency in time-based data processing. The method is applicable in multimedia streaming, real-time analytics, and sensor data management, where accurate time synchronization is critical.
3. The computing device of claim 2 , wherein the processor is further configured to: map fields within the generated packet frames based on field definitions within the declarative language definitions; and generate packets for the bitstream using the syntax tree based on the mapped fields.
This invention relates to computing devices that process data streams, particularly for generating packetized data from bitstreams using declarative language definitions. The problem addressed is the need for flexible and efficient packet generation from raw bitstreams, where the structure of the packets must conform to predefined field definitions while maintaining high performance. The computing device includes a processor configured to parse declarative language definitions to construct a syntax tree representing the structure of the packet frames. The processor then generates packet frames based on this syntax tree. Additionally, the processor maps fields within these generated packet frames according to field definitions specified in the declarative language. Using the syntax tree and the mapped fields, the processor generates packets for the bitstream, ensuring that the packet structure adheres to the defined field definitions while efficiently processing the data. This approach allows for dynamic and configurable packet generation, where the packet structure can be modified by updating the declarative language definitions without requiring changes to the underlying hardware or low-level software. The use of a syntax tree and field mapping ensures that the packet generation process is both accurate and efficient, suitable for high-speed data processing applications.
4. The computing device of claim 3 , wherein the processor is further configured to: verify packets using the syntax tree based on error handling definitions.
A computing device processes data packets using a syntax tree to validate their structure and content. The device includes a processor that constructs a syntax tree from a formal grammar, where the tree defines valid packet structures. The processor then parses incoming packets against this tree to ensure they conform to the expected format. Additionally, the processor verifies packets by applying error handling definitions stored in the syntax tree. These definitions specify how to detect and manage errors, such as malformed data or missing fields, ensuring robust validation. The system may also include a memory storing the syntax tree and error handling rules, and a network interface for receiving packets. This approach improves packet validation efficiency by leveraging a structured, rule-based syntax tree and predefined error handling mechanisms, reducing the need for manual checks and minimizing processing overhead. The technology is applicable in network communication systems where reliable packet validation is critical, such as in routers, firewalls, or protocol analyzers.
5. The computing device of claim 2 , wherein the event start and end definitions are obtained from a field device access and device description language library.
A computing device is configured to monitor and analyze events in an industrial automation system. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to obtain event start and end definitions from a field device access and device description language (FDDL) library. The FDDL library provides standardized access to field devices, such as sensors, actuators, and controllers, and includes metadata describing their capabilities, communication protocols, and event definitions. The computing device uses these definitions to detect and log events, such as alarms, state changes, or process deviations, based on data received from the field devices. The system may also correlate events across multiple devices to identify patterns or anomalies. This approach ensures consistent event detection by leveraging standardized device descriptions, reducing the need for custom configurations for each device type. The solution improves automation system monitoring by providing a unified framework for event management, enhancing reliability and interoperability in industrial environments.
6. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the declarative language definitions are obtained from a line code encoding library.
A computing device processes declarative language definitions to generate executable code. The device includes a processor and memory storing instructions that, when executed, cause the processor to obtain declarative language definitions from a line code encoding library. These definitions specify hardware or software configurations, such as pin mappings, register settings, or communication protocols, in a human-readable format. The processor then converts these definitions into executable code, which configures hardware components or software modules accordingly. The line code encoding library provides standardized definitions that abstract low-level implementation details, allowing developers to define configurations without direct hardware programming. This approach reduces errors and simplifies the development process by separating high-level design from low-level implementation. The system may also validate the definitions against the library to ensure compatibility and correctness before generating the executable code. This method is particularly useful in embedded systems, where hardware configurations must be precisely defined and validated.
7. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the processor is further configured to compile the syntax tree from the declarative language definitions.
A computing device processes declarative language definitions to generate a syntax tree, which represents the structure and relationships of elements defined in the language. The device includes a processor that compiles these definitions into the syntax tree, enabling analysis, transformation, or execution of the declarative language. The syntax tree is a hierarchical structure where nodes represent language constructs such as variables, functions, or control flow elements, and edges define their relationships. This compilation step ensures the declarative language definitions are accurately parsed and structured for further processing. The computing device may also validate the syntax tree against predefined rules or constraints, ensuring correctness before subsequent operations. This approach simplifies the handling of declarative languages by automating the conversion of human-readable definitions into a machine-processable format, improving efficiency and reducing errors in language processing tasks. The system is particularly useful in software development, configuration management, and automated system deployment, where declarative languages are commonly used to define system behavior or infrastructure.
8. The computing device of claim 1 , wherein the syntax tree is stored in a first memory and the declarative language definitions are stored in a second memory.
A computing device processes a declarative language to generate a syntax tree representing the structure of a program written in that language. The device includes a parser that analyzes the program code to construct the syntax tree, which captures the hierarchical relationships between language constructs. The syntax tree is stored in a first memory, while the declarative language definitions—such as grammar rules, keywords, and syntax specifications—are stored in a separate second memory. This separation allows for efficient memory management and modular updates to the language definitions without affecting the syntax tree. The device may also include a validator that checks the syntax tree against the language definitions to ensure compliance with the language's rules. The system enables dynamic language processing, where the syntax tree can be modified or extended without altering the underlying language definitions, facilitating flexible and scalable program analysis. This approach improves performance by isolating the syntax tree from the language definitions, reducing memory access conflicts and enabling parallel processing of the tree and definitions. The invention is particularly useful in environments where multiple language versions or custom extensions are supported, such as integrated development environments (IDEs) or compiler frameworks.
9. A method for interpreting a physical input signal using a syntax tree, the method comprising: reading declarative language definitions; compiling the syntax tree based on the declarative language definitions; and converting the physical input signal into a bitstream by employing nodes of the syntax tree to decode a line code encoding of the physical input signal.
This invention relates to signal interpretation using syntax trees, addressing the challenge of efficiently decoding physical input signals encoded with line codes. The method involves reading declarative language definitions that specify the structure and rules for interpreting the signal. These definitions are used to compile a syntax tree, which serves as a hierarchical representation of the decoding process. The syntax tree includes nodes that define how the physical input signal should be parsed and interpreted. The method then converts the physical input signal into a bitstream by applying the syntax tree nodes to decode the line code encoding. This approach allows for flexible and programmable decoding of signals, enabling adaptation to different line code schemes without modifying the core decoding logic. The syntax tree structure ensures that the decoding process follows a predefined set of rules, improving accuracy and efficiency. This method is particularly useful in communication systems where signals must be decoded in real-time with minimal latency.
10. The method of claim 9 , further comprising: generating packet frames for the bitstream using the syntax tree based on event start and end definitions.
A method for processing a bitstream in a data transmission system involves generating packet frames from the bitstream using a syntax tree. The syntax tree is constructed based on event start and end definitions, which specify the boundaries of data segments within the bitstream. The method ensures that the packet frames are structured according to the syntax tree, allowing for efficient transmission and reconstruction of the original data. The syntax tree may be built by analyzing the bitstream to identify event markers, which are used to define the start and end points of data segments. These markers are then organized hierarchically in the syntax tree to represent the logical structure of the data. The packet frames are generated by segmenting the bitstream according to the syntax tree, ensuring that each frame contains a portion of the data that corresponds to a specific event or data segment. This approach improves data transmission efficiency by reducing redundancy and enabling accurate reconstruction of the original data at the receiving end. The method is particularly useful in systems where data integrity and efficient transmission are critical, such as in multimedia streaming or real-time communication applications.
11. The method of claim 10 , further comprising: generating packets for the bitstream using the syntax tree based on field definitions.
A method for processing data involves generating packets for a bitstream using a syntax tree based on predefined field definitions. The syntax tree represents the hierarchical structure of the data, where each node corresponds to a field or a group of fields. The field definitions specify the properties of each field, such as data type, size, and encoding rules. The method constructs the syntax tree by parsing the field definitions and organizing them into a hierarchical structure. Once the syntax tree is built, the method generates packets by traversing the tree and encoding the fields according to their definitions. This ensures that the bitstream is structured in a way that can be efficiently transmitted, stored, or processed by other systems. The method is particularly useful in applications where data needs to be serialized into a compact binary format, such as in communication protocols, file formats, or data compression systems. By using a syntax tree, the method provides a flexible and scalable way to define and process complex data structures.
12. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: verifying packets using the syntax tree based on error handling definitions.
A method for processing data packets involves constructing a syntax tree from a packet payload and validating the packet structure using predefined error handling definitions. The syntax tree is built by parsing the packet payload according to a specified grammar, which defines the hierarchical relationships between different data elements within the packet. This tree structure allows for efficient traversal and analysis of the packet contents. The method further includes verifying the packets by comparing the syntax tree against error handling definitions, which specify acceptable and unacceptable packet formats, syntax rules, and error conditions. This verification step ensures that packets conform to expected standards, detecting and flagging any deviations or malformed structures. The method is applicable in network communication systems where reliable packet validation is critical, such as in protocol compliance checking, intrusion detection, or data integrity verification. By leveraging syntax tree analysis and predefined error handling rules, the method provides a robust mechanism for identifying and resolving packet-related errors in real-time data transmission.
13. The method of claim 11 , further comprising: extracting a payload from the packets of the bitstream using token replacement to output a media file.
This invention relates to processing a bitstream of packets to extract a media file. The method involves receiving a bitstream containing packets with embedded tokens, where these tokens represent placeholders for media data. The method further includes replacing the tokens with corresponding media data to reconstruct the original media content. Specifically, the method extracts a payload from the packets by performing token replacement, which involves identifying and substituting tokens with their associated media data segments. This process outputs a complete media file, such as a video or audio file, by reassembling the data in the correct order. The method ensures that the extracted media file is accurately reconstructed from the tokenized bitstream, addressing challenges in efficiently transmitting and storing media data by reducing redundancy and improving data integrity. The technique is particularly useful in systems where media files are fragmented or encoded for transmission, requiring reassembly before playback or further processing. The method may also include additional steps such as validating the extracted payload to ensure data consistency and error correction. The overall approach enhances media file handling in digital communication and storage systems.
14. The method of claim 10 , wherein the event start and end definitions are from a field device access and device description language library.
This invention relates to industrial automation systems, specifically methods for managing event data from field devices. The problem addressed is the lack of standardized event definitions in industrial systems, leading to inconsistencies in event logging and analysis. The invention provides a method for defining and processing event data from field devices using standardized event start and end definitions stored in a field device access (FDA) and device description language (DDL) library. The FDA library contains standardized access methods for interacting with field devices, while the DDL library provides structured descriptions of device capabilities, including event definitions. The method retrieves event definitions from these libraries to ensure consistent event logging across different devices. Event data is processed by comparing timestamps against the retrieved start and end definitions to determine event boundaries. This approach improves interoperability between devices from different manufacturers and simplifies event data analysis. The method may also include filtering events based on predefined criteria and storing processed event data in a centralized database for further analysis. The use of standardized definitions reduces configuration errors and enhances system reliability.
15. The method of claim 9 , wherein the declarative language definitions are from a line code encoding library.
A system and method for encoding and decoding data using a line code encoding library involves converting data into a format suitable for transmission or storage. The method addresses the challenge of efficiently encoding data while ensuring reliability and error detection. The encoding process uses a declarative language to define line code rules, which are stored in a library. These rules specify how data bits are mapped to symbols or sequences for transmission. The library contains predefined encoding schemes, such as Manchester, NRZ, or other line codes, which can be selected based on application requirements. The method includes selecting an encoding scheme from the library, applying the scheme to input data, and generating an encoded output. The encoded data may include additional error-checking bits or synchronization markers to improve transmission integrity. The system may also include a decoding process that reverses the encoding, using the same library definitions to convert received symbols back into the original data. The library-based approach allows for flexibility, as different encoding schemes can be applied without modifying the core encoding/decoding logic. This method is useful in communication systems, storage devices, or any application requiring reliable data transmission.
16. A computer program product stored in a non-transitory medium that, when executed by a processor in a computing device adapted for test and measurement, causes the computing device to: compile a syntax tree based on a protocol declaration that includes one or more of bitstream definitions, event definitions, and field definitions; receive a physical signal; and decode the physical signal into a bitstream using the syntax tree.
This invention relates to test and measurement systems, specifically improving the decoding of physical signals in accordance with protocol specifications. The challenge addressed is efficiently parsing and interpreting complex signal data based on predefined protocol structures, which often involve hierarchical definitions of bitstreams, events, and fields. The solution involves a computer program product that processes protocol declarations to generate a syntax tree. This tree represents the hierarchical structure of the protocol, including bitstream definitions (defining the binary data structure), event definitions (defining signal events or triggers), and field definitions (defining individual data fields within the bitstream). The program then receives a physical signal, such as an electrical or optical waveform, and decodes it into a bitstream by traversing the syntax tree. This approach allows for flexible and accurate decoding of signals conforming to various protocols, as the syntax tree dynamically adapts to the protocol's structure. The invention enhances test and measurement systems by automating the decoding process, reducing manual configuration, and improving accuracy in interpreting protocol-compliant signals. The syntax tree abstraction enables support for multiple protocols and simplifies updates when protocol specifications change.
17. The computer program product of claim 16 that further causes the computing device to: use a line code encoding library to supply the bitstream definitions.
A system and method for encoding and decoding data streams using line code encoding libraries. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently transmitting digital data over communication channels by providing standardized bitstream definitions through a dedicated encoding library. The system includes a computing device configured to process data by applying line code encoding techniques, which convert digital data into a format suitable for transmission while maintaining data integrity and minimizing errors. The encoding library contains predefined bitstream definitions that ensure compatibility and consistency across different communication protocols. The computing device retrieves these definitions from the library to encode input data into a structured bitstream, which can then be transmitted or stored. The system also supports decoding operations, where the encoded bitstream is converted back into its original digital form using the same library. This approach simplifies the implementation of line code encoding in various applications, such as telecommunications, networking, and data storage, by centralizing bitstream definitions in a reusable library. The use of standardized definitions reduces development time and ensures interoperability between different systems. The system may also include error detection and correction mechanisms to enhance reliability during data transmission.
18. The computer program product of claim 16 that further causes the computing device to: use a field device access and device description language library to supply the event definitions.
This invention relates to industrial automation systems, specifically improving event management in process control environments. The problem addressed is the lack of standardized event definitions across different field devices, leading to inconsistencies in monitoring and diagnostics. The solution involves a computer program product that enhances event handling by integrating a field device access and device description language (DDL) library to provide standardized event definitions. The system includes a computing device that processes event data from field devices, such as sensors or actuators, and uses the DDL library to ensure consistent event definitions across diverse devices. The library contains standardized descriptions of events, allowing the computing device to interpret and categorize events uniformly. This standardization simplifies event monitoring, reduces misinterpretations, and improves system diagnostics. The invention also includes a method for generating event notifications based on the standardized definitions, ensuring that operators receive accurate and actionable alerts. The use of a DDL library eliminates the need for device-specific event definitions, reducing configuration complexity and enhancing interoperability between different field devices in an industrial automation network.
19. The computer program product of claim 16 that further causes the computing device to: use a field device access and device description language library to supply the field definitions.
A system and method for managing field device configurations in industrial automation environments. The technology addresses the challenge of efficiently accessing and utilizing field device data, which is often stored in proprietary formats that are difficult to integrate with broader automation systems. The invention provides a standardized approach to retrieving and processing field device information, improving interoperability and reducing configuration errors. The system includes a computing device that executes a computer program to interact with field devices, such as sensors or actuators, in an industrial setting. The program uses a field device access and device description language (DDL) library to supply field definitions, which describe the structure and properties of data fields associated with the devices. This library standardizes the way field data is accessed, ensuring consistency across different device types and manufacturers. The system may also include a user interface for configuring and monitoring the field devices, as well as a data processing module to analyze and store the retrieved field data. By leveraging the DDL library, the system simplifies the integration of field devices into larger automation frameworks, reducing the need for custom coding or manual configuration. This approach enhances scalability and maintainability, allowing engineers to focus on system optimization rather than compatibility issues. The invention is particularly useful in industries such as manufacturing, energy, and process control, where reliable and efficient device management is critical.
20. The computer program product of claim 16 , wherein the protocol declaration is based on a standard network protocol.
This invention relates to computer program products for managing network communications, specifically addressing the challenge of efficiently defining and enforcing communication protocols in distributed systems. The invention provides a method for generating a protocol declaration that standardizes how data is transmitted between networked devices, ensuring compatibility and reliability across different systems. The protocol declaration is based on a standard network protocol, such as TCP/IP or HTTP, which simplifies integration with existing infrastructure. The system includes a protocol analyzer that inspects network traffic to identify patterns and generate a formalized protocol specification. This specification is then used to validate and enforce communication rules, preventing errors and ensuring consistent behavior. The invention also includes a protocol validator that checks incoming and outgoing messages against the declared protocol, flagging deviations for correction. By relying on well-established protocols, the system reduces the complexity of custom protocol development while maintaining interoperability. The solution is particularly useful in environments where multiple devices must communicate seamlessly, such as IoT networks or enterprise systems. The invention improves efficiency by automating protocol definition and validation, reducing manual configuration and potential misconfigurations.
21. The computer program product of claim 16 , wherein the protocol declaration is based on a custom network protocol.
A system and method for network communication involves a computer program product that processes protocol declarations to facilitate data exchange between devices. The invention addresses the challenge of efficiently managing diverse communication protocols in networked environments, particularly where standardized protocols may not fully meet specific application requirements. The system includes a protocol declaration module that defines communication rules for a custom network protocol, enabling tailored data transmission and reception between devices. This module interprets the protocol declaration to establish connections, format data packets, and handle error conditions according to the custom protocol's specifications. The system also includes a data processing module that processes incoming and outgoing data based on the protocol declaration, ensuring compatibility and reliability in communication. The custom protocol may include unique features such as specialized packet structures, custom error handling, or proprietary encryption methods, allowing for optimized performance in specific use cases. The invention enhances flexibility in network communication by enabling the use of non-standard protocols while maintaining robust data exchange capabilities.
22. The computer program product of claim 16 that further causes the computing device to: extract a payload from the bitstream using token replacement to output a media file.
This invention relates to digital media processing, specifically methods for extracting and reconstructing media files from encoded bitstreams. The problem addressed is the efficient and accurate extraction of media payloads from encoded data streams, particularly in systems where the original media content has been fragmented or obfuscated for storage or transmission. The system involves a computing device that processes a bitstream containing encoded media data. The device first identifies and replaces tokens within the bitstream, which are placeholders or markers used to indicate the location of media payload segments. Through token replacement, the device reconstructs the original media file by substituting the tokens with the corresponding payload data. This process ensures that the extracted media file is complete and playable, even if the original bitstream was fragmented or encoded in a non-standard format. The token replacement mechanism may involve mapping tokens to specific data segments or using predefined rules to determine the correct payload segments for substitution. The system is designed to handle various media formats, including video, audio, and image files, and can be applied in streaming, storage, or transmission systems where media data is encoded for efficiency or security purposes. The invention improves upon prior methods by providing a more robust and flexible approach to media extraction, reducing errors and ensuring compatibility across different media formats.
Unknown
April 21, 2020
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